Use of inhaled corticosteroids in children with persistent asthma: evaluation of side effects

Abstract

Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are a key treatment for persistent asthma in children, recognized for their effectiveness in controlling inflammation and preventing exacerbations. However, concerns about long-term side effects have led to significant research. This study aims to review current literature on the adverse effects associated with prolonged ICS use in pediatric asthma patients. Key areas of concern include potential impacts on growth, local side effects such as oral candidiasis and dysphonia, and systemic effects including adrenal suppression and reduced bone mineral density. Research indicates that while ICS use may lead to a slight reduction in growth velocity, this effect is generally transient and does not significantly affect final adult height. Local side effects are manageable with proper inhalation techniques and spacer use. Systemic effects, such as adrenal suppression and decreased bone mineral density, are rare but require monitoring, especially with long-term or high-dose therapy. Overall, the benefits of ICS in managing persistent asthma outweigh the risks when treatment is carefully monitored and tailored to individual patient needs. This review underscores the importance of balancing therapeutic benefits with potential risks and highlights the need for ongoing research to further refine asthma management strategies..